Discover the best of Vietnam from the natural beauty of the north's highlands and bays to the historic cities and pristine beaches of the south with palaces, tombs and plenty more in between.
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Hanoi to Hoi An - 8 days

Travel between two of Vietnam's most charming destinations from the fading colonial chic of Hanoi to the attractive riverside merchant town of Hoi An with a night spent cruising the jade waters of Halong Bay and time spent exploring the royal citadel of imperial Hue, all in just 8 days.

Itinerary

Xin Chao or 'hello' in Vietnamese! Welcome to Hanoi, one of the region's most charming cities where French colonial elegance meets Asian spirit with attractive lakes, colourful pagodas and atmospheric streets. On arrival you will be met by our local representative and transferred to our joining hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax or head out and explore.

For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Hanoi with us on our optional Back Streets of Hanoi add-on which explores the quaint districts of Cho Buoi, Hoang Hoa Tham and Vinh Phuc, and also includes an exhilarating local experience - riding pillion, on taxi-motorbikes through a maze of tiny streets and along the shore of beautiful Ho Tay Lake.
Overnight: Hanoi

Hanoi – Halong Bay. After breakfast this morning we leave Hanoi and transfer to the crown in Vietnam's scenic crown - the incredibly beautiful Halong Bay. We'll explore the jade waters studded with karst islands aboard a traditional wooden junk boat and after embarkation there's time for lunch soaking up the views.

This afternoon we will visit the spectacular Tien Ong Cave which was recently opened to the public in 2010, with its stunning stalagmites and stalactites. Later this evening back on board, watch a Vietnamese cooking demonstration held on the sundeck before settling down for a sumptuous seafood dinner.
Overnight: Deluxe Junk Boat | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Floating villages and cyclo rides

Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue. Early birds can start the day with a relaxing Tai Chi class on the sundeck or a traditional massage - the perfect way to start the day. Before heading back to port we'll explore by kayak the Floating Village of Cua Van, which is home to generations of fishing families. Here we’ll see the traditional and colourful floating wooden houses and the locals going about their daily lives.

On arrival back into Hanoi mid-afternoon we’ll explore the maze of streets in the French Quarter on our very only cyclo (rickshaws), taking in highlights such as the Opera house and Ly Thai To park. We then swap our wheels for a leisurely walk through ‘36 streets of the old quarter’, named after the numerous guilds that once set up shop on a particular street from silk tailors to traditional medicine shops.

Later this evening there's a chance to freshen up before boarding the train (4 berth sleeper cabin, basic standard) on the ‘Reunification Express’ railway line to Hue. An option to fly from Hanoi to Hue is also available.
Overnight: Sleeper train | Breakfast

Arriving into the imperial city of Hue this morning enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the 19th-century capital. During the tour we'll visit the city's oldest monastery and what has become the city's emblem - the Thien Mu Pagoda with its 21-metre-tall tower. There will be time to explore the walled fortress of the Imperial Purple Palace, ringed by a moat with elaborate gateway arches and impressive ramparts, some of which lay in ruin.

Later we head out to the countryside and visit the mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc, one of the wonderfully ornamented Royal Tombs of the Nguyen kings, which lies in a narrow valley surrounded by pine forest. This evening there is the option to enjoy a leisurely sunset cruise on the Perfume River. Travelling by longboat it's the perfect way to enjoy the city skyline.
Overnight: Hue | Breakfast, Lunch

Hue - Road of the Ocean Clouds - Hoi An. Departing Hue this morning our scenic drive via the Hai Van Pass (Road of the Ocean Clouds) takes us to Hoi An. The road follows the coast so there'll be wonderful views of beach to the east and verdant hills to the west. There'll even be time to walk along My Khe beach, nicknamed 'China Beach' by the Americans during the war and featured in Francis Ford Coppola’s movie ‘Apocalypse Now’.

Arrive into the charming, old-world trading port of Hoi An later this afternoon. A short walking tour will introduce you to the highlights of this enchanting and historical town with highlights including the Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese Assembly Hall, 200-year-old Tam Ky house, former merchants’ homes and the 400 year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.

During your stay in Hoi An, we offer a unique optional Hoi An Street Eats add-on, which explores the city’s most popular local haunts. Cruise the city the way the locals do, by vintage Vespa and enjoy lots of tasty Vietnamese Cuisine. Book early with your reservation consultant, as numbers are limited.
Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast

Rural Life in Vietnam

Today will be spent out in the countryside learning all about the rural way of life in Vietnam. We'll reach Tra Que village by bicycle, a leisurely ride on flat roads that take us through ride paddies and farm land. The option of a taxi is available locally for those not keen on bike riding (payable locally). Once at the village we'll get our hands dirty learning about age-old farming practices and putting our knowledge to use by tending the fields and gardens. Lunch is a home-cooked affair with everyone mucking in. Later this afternoon return back to Hoi An on your bikes.Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7

Hoi An - at leisure

Today is completely free for you to enjoy Hoi An as you wish. Lose yourself in the cobbled streets lined with boutique restaurants, hip cafes, delightful craft shops and some of Asia’s best bespoke tailors (whose services come at a nominal price). If you prefer some R& R, lounge by the hotel pool or head to the beach. Those keen on Vietnam's ancient and more recent history can take an optional excursion to the ruined Cham city of My Son, or to Quang Ngai, the site of the My Lai massacre memorial, which marks a significant turning point in the Vietnam War. Overnight: Hoi An | Breakfast

Day 8

Hoi An

Saturday. Today marks the end of your time in Vietnam. A departure transfer will be provided to take you to Danang airport in time for your onward departure flight. Breakfast

Prices & Dates

Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All other departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' applies for single travellers who require their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price. If you are happy to be paired up with another single traveller of the same sex on your tour, this can be arranged, thus avoiding the single person supplement.

We have special arrangements on this tour to attend the Full Moon Festival taking place in Hoi An. A small supplement applies. If you wish to travel on this date please refer to the 'Full Moon Festival Express' 8 day tour on our website.

We have special arrangements on this tour to attend the Full Moon Festival taking place in Hoi An. A small supplement applies. If you wish to travel on this date please refer to the 'Full Moon Festival Express' 8 day tour on our website.

The Ann Hotel, Hanoi

In the centre of Hanoi sits the contemporary and sophisticated The Ann hotel. Guest rooms are spacious and well appointed with delightful en suite facilities including bath and shower. The hotel boasts both a bar and restaurant. The swanky A lounge offers a wonderful selection of beverages and diners can enjoy the Onyx house for delicious local and international dishes on A la carte or buffet style. Our top tip is to head to the roof top pool for a refreshing dip and wonderful views across the city.

Sleeper train - 4 berth cabin, Hanoi

Cabins on board are comfortable though not comparable to European standards. Aboard each wagon are 9 compartments that comprise of 4 bunks per compartment shared by mixed sexes. A western-style toilet (with a varying degree of cleanliness) is located at either end of the wagon. Air-conditioning (not always operational in the summer) and lighting are controlled from inside the cabin, which is also lockable. Luggage can be stored in a compartment under the bottom bunk. Linen and a pillow are provided.

Sunway Hotel, Hanoi

This ambient, boutique hotel combines traditional appeal with modern pleasures. Rooms are furnished in a contemporary fashion with an array of amenities for added comfort. Its restaurant provides a great variety of Vietnamese cuisine and you are welcome to enjoy cocktails and live music in the Jazz Bar or relax in the hotel's health spa.

Bhaya Classic I Junk Boat, Halong Bay

This premier cruise boat offers 18 well appointed cabins with en suite amenities. Cabins are contemporary in design, whilst the finer touches have a distinct oriental influence. All cabins feature large windows creating a bright and airy atmosphere as well as scenic views. Facilities and services onboard include a dining room and bar, a sunbathing area on-deck, masseur and small library.

Syrena Junk Boat, Halong Bay

A tradition hand crafted boat, the Syrena Junk Boat offers superb en suite air conditioned cabins with comfortable interiors and balconies. The on board Lotus Restaurant serves up a delicious array of Vietnamese and International cuisine. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas. Swimming, kayaking and tai chi are all offered on board and movie nights are also very popular.

Mondial Hotel, Hue

Just a 5 minute walk from the Ho Chi Minh museum, the Mondial Hotel is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms benefit from spacious interiors, comfortable beds and lots of mod-cons. There is complimentary Wi-Fi for guests, an outdoor pool and onsite spa - perfect for a re laxing massage. As well as the delicious Huong Xuan Restaurant there is also the Lobby Lounge - great for cocktails before dinner!

ÊMM Hotel, Hue

Situated in the heart of the former imperial capital, ÊMM Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sights. Completely renovated in 2016, the guestrooms are generously-sized and complete with modern amenities. The imperial jade and royal purple colour scheme was inspired by ancient Hue itself and guests can take advantage of the mini-gym, pool-side bar and a spacious reading area. Enjoy delicious Vietnamese and international cuisine in the contemporary restaurant after a day of exploring.

Thanh Binh Riverside hotel , Hoi An

Boasting a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, the Thanh Binh Riverside offers excellent accommodation in a great loacation. Guest rooms benefit from garden or river views and all come full air-conditioned, with stunning hardwood floors and all mod-cons. The onsite restaurant offers a great selection of Vietnamese and International dishes and the town centre is just a mere 200m walk away. Why not grab a cocktail and relax by the pool in the afternoon - a great way to refresh yourself from the Vietnam heat.

Reviews

Travellers have rated this tour as 4.72
out of 5
based on 39 recent reviews

Hung was an amazing person and became also a good friend. Very kind and knowledgeable. He kept us informed ALL the time. You knew exactly where you were going and the short term plan ahead. This was great for a bunch of people with all different levels of energies. He has such a great sense of humour and was the glue to a great team. I would choose him anytime and will recommend this tour to all my friends - just because of him.

He is truly the best and may he be handsomely rewarded as he totally deserves it.

Regards

Marinda”

Marinda Maartens &bullet; Submitted 21 Jan 2019

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“

Tour was great, nice mix of things to do and see, but our Guide really went above and beyond to make our tour special.

Hung met us at the hotel and assisted us with recommendations, help out when one of our tour party last their passports, gave us regular updates on the plans and had fantastic knowledge of the country, history and culture. Hung was always professional, he managed the team really well and is an asset to your company.

The tour gets 5 stars out of 5 but the guide deserves 7 stars out of 5.”

Scott Field &bullet; Submitted 17 Jan 2019

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“

Tuan was full of information, friendliness, good humour, and fun. He provided wonderful insight and appreciation for the places we visited and Vietnam as a whole. I especially loved our cruise in Halong Bay, including kayaking through the fishing village. The other highlight for me was cycling to Tra Que Village for gardening and cooking. Felt like honest contact with place and people. Thanks for everything! PS. I would love to see Tuan win credit as Guide of Year.”

Sandra Howe &bullet; Submitted 08 Dec 2018

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Great mix of activity & culture, though I would have extended to Ho Chi Min if I had realised this was an option at the time of booking.

A few concerns I am picking up with OTG, but not enough to spoil an awesome holiday, shared with a fabulous bunch of new friends. Really pleased with the way OTG managed with some health issues for one of the group, this would reassure me for any future trips.”

Liz Collier &bullet; Submitted 11 Oct 2018

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We enjoyed the small group of 14, which enabled us to get to know one another. The pace and variety of activities on the tour, made it very interesting. However, the overnight spot in Halong Bay with a view of the city lights in the distance and the MANY other boats at the same site, was a let-down, when compared to the same On the Go tour two years ago. The tour guide, Tuan, was a treasure trove of information and went out of his way to make everybody comfortable and contented. He was always friendly and ready to answer all questions in a comprehensive manner. The bus drivers were also to be commended for their professionalism. Thanks for another (our fifth) memorable On the Go tour.”

Andre and Aletta Wessels &bullet; Submitted 09 Oct 2018

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Excellent Tour and Hung Do was just amazing, he went above and beyond as our Tour Guide, we will definitely be using On The Go tours for future travel”

Sue Campbell &bullet; Submitted 09 Sep 2018

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The tour was a great snippet view of what Vietnam has to offer. I would have loved more time in Halong Bay and even wandering around the imperial palace in Hue - but as the tour name suggests it does give a flavour of what’s available and enough temptation to come back Thank you! ”

Sara Nigro &bullet; Submitted 03 Sep 2018

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The tour far surpassed either of our expectations- it was very well organised. The transport to and from the airport was on time, the hotels were all lovely. The night in Ha Long Bay was one of the highlights of the trip, so beautiful. Another was cycling through rural Hoi An- no words! Our tour guide Sunny was excellent, she had a great sense of humour and was very insightful. Amazing tour, would definitely recommend it. We shared many laughs with our group. Plenty of time to enjoy the sights for yourselves. Thank you On The Go! Simply wonderful.
”

Thom and Charlotte Henderson &bullet; Submitted 27 Aug 2018

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Hung Do did a fine job during the part of the trip I was on: Hanoi to Hoi An. Always there when he was needed, and providing answers or assistance as required. The tour was in good hands.
”

Ned Smith &bullet; Submitted 10 May 2018

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“

Excellent all round tour. Gave a great insight to the country and its flavour.

Highly recommended especially if you are a first time traveller to Vietnam.”

Hung was an amazing person and became also a good friend. Very kind and knowledgeable. He kept us informed ALL the time. You knew exactly where you were going and the short term plan ahead. This was great for a bunch of people with all different levels of energies. He has such a great sense of humour and was the glue to a great team. I would choose him anytime and will recommend this tour to all my friends - just because of him.

He is truly the best and may he be handsomely rewarded as he totally deserves it.

Life can be unpredictable and we understand that sometimes it’s necessary to change or delay your travel plans. With our LIFETIME DEPOSIT guarantee, you can book our Signature tours safe in the knowledge that if you’re unable to travel, your deposit is fully transferable and will be held for an unlimited time.

Vietnam Group Tours

Our popular Vietnam group tours offer a fun and hassle-free way to explore the best of Vietnam, from Hanoi in the North to Ho Chi Minh City in the South.

You will stay at fabulous 3-4* hotels with great facilities like a swimming pool, as well as a traditional junk boat for cruising around Halong Bay. Average group size is around 18 travellers, with a maximum of 24, and our trips include plenty of fun local experiences like cycling around Tra Que village, learning to cook traditional Vietnamese food and discovering the Cu Chi tunnels to name a few.

Our Vietnam group tours also include an overnight sleeper train on the Reunification Express from Hanoi to Hue so you also get to experience train travel in Vietnam and perhaps even sample some on-board karaoke - the train attendants take it very seriously! We also offer a selection of optional extras on our trips, most recently adding a flight bolt on to get you quickly from Hanoi to Hue, which gives you extra time and an additional night to explore charming Hanoi further.

A real plus on our trips is the free time we've built in, particularly the free days we include in Hoi An where you can explore the ancient town, relax by the pool or head to the beach for a mini holiday within a holiday. If you are keen to explore more of South East Asia beyond Vietnam, consider one of our longer multi-country group tours that cover the best of neighbouring Cambodia, Thailand and Laos for incredible temples, colourful hill tribes, the temples of Angkor, bustling Bangkok and charming Luang Prabang.

Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All other departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single supplement' applies for single travellers who require their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price. If you are happy to be paired up with another single traveller of the same sex on your tour, this can be arranged, thus avoiding the single person supplement.

FULL MOON FESTIVAL TOUR: If you are travelling with us on 18 September 2018, you will witness the Full Moon Festival celebrations in Hoi An. Please see the Trip Notes for more info on this special festival departure.

Signature

Exciting Days, Comfortable Nights

On The Go's Signature group tours place local interaction and authenticity at the heart of your cultural travel experience. Upping the comfort stakes, this range is a clear cut above our Budget range.

Appealing to a wide age demographic from the 20s to 60+, we maximize your days with excitement and awe and then bring you home to a comfortable 4* hotel with western amenities, air-conditioning, WiFi and, where appropriate, a swimming pool. Hotels can sometimes be of 3 or 5 star standard too, ensuring you get the best value for your holiday.

Visiting all the main attractions you’ll be accompanied throughout by our highly qualified English-speaking local guides too. Group size is typically 18 with a maximum for 24, apart from festival tours, where group sizes can be larger due to the one-off nature of these events.

Guaranteed Departures

This tour is 100% guaranteed to depart with travellers.

Compare Tours

Select up to 3 tours to compare prices, itineraries and complete tour options:

For all our tours and tailor-made holidays we provide you with a clear categorisation of all hotels we use. The REGIONAL CATEGORY indicates the local rating of each hotel in each respective country. We have also rated each hotel using OUR CATEGORY, which will be in line with generally accepted western hotel grading standards.

SimpleBasic hotels and simple accommodation is a no frills option with an adventurous authentic feel.

StandardStandard accommodation equates to a Western 3-star standard, always featuring en-suite rooms and usually a restaurant.

SuperiorSuperior accommodation equates to a Western 4-star standard, featuring en-suite rooms and usually a restaurant and often a swimming pool and/or a fitness centre.

DeluxeDeluxe accommodation equates to a Western 5-star standard, usually featuring spacious, en-suite rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre and an array of amenities, excellent service and customer care.

LavishLavish accommodation equates to a Western 5-star plus standard - the creme de la creme. Featuring spacious, en-suite rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre and an array of amenities, this accommodation is a cut above the rest. Sheer opulence!

Tipping Kitty

Tipping is not a natural part of many Western cultures and many of us feel uncomfortable, or unsure, about when, or how much, to tip. However, in Vietnam, tipping makes up a significant part of many people's wages so it's important that we get it right. For this reason we've developed a very simple system to take all the hassle out of tipping. With our 'tipping made easy' policy, a nominal pre-determined amount is collected from all group tour participants to cover tips en route. This then saves you the hassle of when and how much to tip bellhops, luggage handlers, local guides and other support staff through the tour. Our 'tipping made easy' doesn't include a tip to your group tour leader. Naturally, though, the amount is up to you as tipping is an entirely personal gesture.